Job Description:

Principal Scientist, Global Scientific & Regulatory Affairs (SRA)

The Principal Scientist, Global SRA leads the development and execution of SRA strategy to manage evolving global scientific and regulatory developments on critical ingredients in food and packaging to enable our freedom to operate. The position applies knowledge in toxicology, regulatory and scientific affairs as well as leverages external networks. 

This position creates, and coordinates globally aligned regulatory and scientific messaging, which can be leveraged by the organization both externally and internally.  It contributes to scientific assessments, maintains external scientific contacts, and demonstrates leadership in trade and scientific associations.  

A demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across teams, adapt seamlessly to ambiguity, and maintain a mindset focused on continuous improvement are essential. Equally important is a proactive curiosity and enthusiasm for leveraging AI tools to enhance research, streamline analysis, and drive innovative solutions.

What are we looking for?

Masters in toxicology, chemistry, biochemistry, veterinary sciences or related scientific discipline.   PhD preferred.

Minimum 5 years of experience with food (pet or human), cosmetic or pharmaceutical company.

Demonstrated understanding of the global human and/or pet food regulatory and ingredient environment.

Demonstrated track record of working successfully across functions to achieve shared goals; and proven ability to interact cross-functionally at all levels within the organization are required.

Shouldn't this be a minimum? vs preferred......Minimum of 5 years’ experience in regulatory & scientific affairs focused on ingredient management of food products and packaging and/or related product categories (such as pet food, food supplements, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics) with proficiency in regulatory affairs and compliance.        

Experience working with trade associations and government agencies to clarify and resolve regulatory matters is required.

Ability to travel 20% International

What will be your key responsibilities?

Technical Issues Management & Foresight

Monitors, reviews, and interprets new scientific literature for ingredients in food and packaging via horizon scanning.   Actively participates in trade association or other organizations leveraging technical advocacy skills to proactively address impact.

Reviews methodologies used for novel ingredient assessments coupled with understanding of regulatory requirements to determine path for regulatory approvals to support commercialization. 

Leads technical scientific issues related to ingredients in food and packaging.   The role ensures that issues, trends, risks and opportunities are appropriately communicated and addressed to support the company’s proactive approach to scientific and regulatory aspects of ingredients in food and packaging.

Develops and maintains strong scientific networks and works with the broader Mars to establish science policy and scientific positions on ingredients in food and packaging.

Provides strategic advice, solutions and technical expertise to regional SRA teams, R&D and regional guidelines and policies and ensures governance and compliance with these and other Mars policies.

Scientific & Regulatory Communication

Develops and communicates science-based information and positions and provides regulatory and scientific guidance to key internal stakeholders (Science, Technology, Product Development, Corporate Affairs, Legal, and Senior Management) on current and emerging scientific and regulatory issues of interest to MW. 

Prepares clear, concise summaries of scientific findings and regulatory updates for internal use.

Collaborates with internal teams to communicate external trends and regulatory changes.

Adopting AI-Driven Approaches

Identifies and shapes opportunities to leverage AI tools and platforms to enhance literature reviews, data analysis, and regulatory intelligence

Stays abreast of digital innovations in SRA and the area of ingredients in food and packaging to recommend new approaches for regulatory affairs and scientific assessment.

Continuous Improvement

Proactive in seeking ways to improve how scientific and regulatory affairs is practiced, ensuring we remain agile, efficient, and aligned with best practices and technological advancements.

Gathers feedback from regional teams, corporate functions, and business units to identify areas for increased efficiency, accuracy, and knowledge sharing.

Supports the development and updating of best practice guidelines, and training materials, to ensure alignment with evolving regulatory requirements and scientific advancements.

What can you expect from Mars?

Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.

Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.

Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.

An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.

#LI-BM1

The base pay range for this position at commencement of employment is between the range listed below, however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including but not limited to job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position will include variable pay, medical and dental benefits, participation in 401k plan, and paid time off benefits. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an applicant receives an offer of employment.

The pay range shown is applicable to all locations listed within the job posting:USD 133,067.00 - USD 182,958.00